NAIROBI, Kenya – Dec 31 – As the world bids farewell to 2023 and welcomes the promise of a new year, residents of Kenya’s capital Nairobi, have been expressing their heartfelt hopes and wishes for 2024.
From good health and professional success to the pursuit of happiness, stable economy, marriage and personal growth, these aspirations reflect the diverse dreams of the city’s people.
Anne Kamau, a 28-year-old computer analyst, shared her wish for the year ahead, saying, “In the coming year, I wish for good health not just for myself but for my loved ones. May we all thrive in wellness and embrace each day with strength.” Anne also added, “Here’s to a year of positivity and joy. Let’s fill our days with smiles, laughter, and a sense of contentment that brightens our lives.”
For Johnson Nderitu, a 32-year-old boda boda rider in Nairobi, health and safety is his priority in the new year.
“As a boda boda rider, my wish is for good health and safety on the roads for me and my fellow riders. May we navigate the city streets with wellness,” he said, expressing hope for happiness and positivity, stating, “In 2024, let’s ride towards happiness and positivity. Every journey should be filled with moments of joy and contentment.”
Elias Ongwenyi, a 26-year-old pharmacist working at Two Rivers Mall, had professional success and personal growth on his mind.
“I wish for a year of professional success and personal growth. May we continue to learn, evolve, and excel in our endeavors at the mall and beyond,” he said.
Elias also emphasized the role of kindness and compassion in healthcare, saying, “As a pharmacist, my hope is to foster kindness and compassion in the healthcare sector. May empathy guide our interactions with patients.”
Emmy Njeri, a 38-year-old data clerk, who also spoke to Capital FM shared her desire to strengthen her relationships with loved ones.
“In the coming year, I aspire to strengthen my love and relationships with family and friends. Let’s create beautiful memories together,” he said. Additionally, Emmy expressed her financial aspirations, saying, “2024 should be a year of financial stability and wise decisions. May opportunities for growth pave the way to a secure future.”
Kevin Kiplangat, a 23-year-old student at the University of Nairobi, looked forward to a year of creativity and inspiration. He said, “As a student, I wish for a year of creativity and inspiration. Let’s explore new horizons and pursue our passions with enthusiasm.” Kevin also highlighted the importance of personal growth, stating, “In 2024, may personal growth be our compass. Let’s continuously evolve, learn, and become resilient in the face of challenges.”
Most of the people of Nairobi who spoke to Capital FM expressed their hope for a world where conflicts are resolved and humanity works together to address global challenges. They affirmed their commitment to making the world a better place for all.
Bellah Okello, a mother of four from Umoja estate in Nairobi, added her wish for economic improvement in the new year, saying, “I hope the government will improve the economy in the new year 2024 because we have really suffered.”
But for 35-year-old Josephine Karimi, her desire to start a family is foremost in the new year.
“I am really praying that I get a husband this year. I have never been married, and my age is really moving fast. I want to start a family,” he said, “All my friends my age are already married.
As the clock ticks closer to midnight, these wishes serve as a reminder of the shared dreams and aspirations that unite people, not only in Nairobi but across the world, as they step into the new year with hope and optimism.
